Wellness
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A mother shares how she survived her son s suicide...

A mother shares how she survived her son's suicide

The Social

January 26, 2016

Caitlin Connelly/The Social

On a spring day in 2009, Lynn Keane's 23-year-old son, Daniel, died by suicide. The loss was unexpected and devastating to the Keane family. After a slow and painful healing process, Lynn decided to share Daniel's story and become an advocate for youth suicide prevention. Today in support of Bell Let's Talk Day, Lynn sat down with the hosts to share her family's story.

During the discussion, Lynn talked about Daniel; what he was like and some of the factors that may have contributed to his depression and suicide. She also revealed how she spent her time after Daniel's death and how she and her family found comfort in one another.

Watch the emotional conversation in the clip above and see below for resources for survivors of suicide loss.

It’s time we started talking openly about our mental health. Join the conversation on Bell Let’s Talk Day, January 25, and help end the stigma around mental illness. For every text message sent and mobile or long-distance call made by Bell Canada and Bell Aliant customers, Bell will donate five cents to Canadian mental health programs. The same goes for anyone sending a tweet using #BellLetsTalk, posting on Instagram using #BellLetsTalk, watching the Bell Let’s Talk video on Facebook, or sending a Snapchat using the Bell Let’s Talk geofilter. But talking about it is just the first step: Visit letstalk.bell.ca for more ways you can effect change and build awareness around mental health.

Taking the first step in seeking help may be hard, but there are a lot of great organizations ready to help you or someone you love. If you are in crisis, it is advised that you go to your local hospital or call 911 immediately. Here is a list of other resources you can use if you or a loved one is experiencing distress.